Videos

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

The female reproductive system consists of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina. These organs are vulnerable to bacterial infections which can be caused by poor hygiene or by sexually transmitted diseases.
Chlamydia and gonorrhea, for example, are caused by bacteria that enter the vagina during sexual intercourse. These bacteria multiply in the warm, moist climate of the vagina, causing inflammation, pain and vaginal discharge. Left untreated, bacterial vaginal infections can spread to other internal organs. For example, bacteria may enter the uterus through the cervix.
If this occurs, bacteria can infect the fallopian tubes, where the bacteria can continue to multiply and create scar tissue. From the fallopian tubes the infection can also spread to the ovaries, as well as to other abdominal structures, such as the bladder, intestines and the walls of the pelvis.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, or PID is the term used for the generalized infection of the uterine lining, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Symptoms of PID can include vaginal discharge, chronic pelvic pain, and fever.
However the most severe consequence of chronic PID may occur during ovulation, when an egg is released from a woman's ovary. The scar tissue left by the bacterial infection may completely block the fallopian tubes such that the egg cannot pass into the uterus. The result is either infertility because sperm cannot reach the egg, or ectopic pregnancy, a medical emergency, in which the egg is fertilized and begins to grow within the fallopian tube.
If you experience any of the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases or PID, seek medical attention. Early detection and treatment is key to preventing unfortunate medical outcomes.